About Us

Mission

The
Niagara Science Museum (NSM) is a sanctuary for the preservation and appreciation
of old science instruments and philosophical apparatus.

In May 2011 Niagara
Science Museum was incorporated as an educational corporation by the Board
of Regents of New York Sate University. This is increasing the scope of
our mission and our museum will engage in suporting original scientific
research in specific topics, sponsor and organise educational and cultural
activities.

The Museum was
formally opened in May, 2009 with an exhibition by Dr. Reinhard Reitzenstein
and Dr. Gary Nickard entitled "Wonder Rooms".

NSM is located
in the original 1910 NationalCarbon Co. Inc. office building, in Niagara
Falls, NY, two miles from the Falls. The abandoned Union Carbide plants
are still in the background of the museum. In the early 1900's, the area
was bursting with industrial activity that was fueled by cheap hydroelectric
power, by easy access to raw materials, and by the availability of unlimited
process water.

After almost
a century of prosperity and growth in the area, decline set in. The patents
expired and much less expensive graphite could be produced elsewhere.
Equally important, large amounts of pollutants were being generated that
contaminated the local environment. These factors contributed to the loss
of major industries in the area.

In 1984, a disastrous
accident at a Union Carbide plant in Bhopal, India, also greatly affected
National Carbon, then a subsidiary of Union Carbide.

The museum will be opened in September and October 2014
by appointment only. Give Nick a call at 716 282 2975 to schedule a visit
(one day notice, please). Nick will be happy to show you our treasures!